American girl boutique and bistro to open in Dallas and Atlanta

— Galleria Dallas and Atlanta's North Point Mall Are First to Offer New Concept —

American Girl, a division of Mattel, today announced plans to open American Girl Boutique and Bistro™, a new experiential retail concept, in two premier shopping centers: Galleria Dallas and North Point Mall in Atlanta. The new stores are slated to open in mid-to-late 2007.

The American Girl Boutique and Bistro will carry a rotating selection of the company's popular dolls, outfits, and accessories as well as a variety of its best-selling American Girl books. In addition, American Girl fans can treat their dolls to a new 'do in the Doll Hair Salon and enjoy brunch, lunch, dinner, or an unforgettable dessert in the casual Bistro. Designed as the ultimate place to celebrate girls' birthdays and other special occasions, each American Girl Boutique and Bistro will feature separate party rooms where girls and their friends can enjoy American Girl–themed parties, complete with organized games and activities, special food and cake, and party favors. Various girl-and-mom-friendly programs and classes will also be offered at the store throughout the year.

"Given our success in experiential retailing in Chicago, New York, and Los Angeles, we're excited to bring the new American Girl Boutique and Bistro concept to select markets and even more fans across the country," said Wade Opland, American Girl's vice president of retail. "With premier locations in Dallas and Atlanta, the stores will provide greater opportunities for new and existing customers to experience the American Girl brand in a fun, casual environment and celebrate special times together."

American Girl Boutique and Bistro

Construction has already begun on the free-standing, 22,500-square-foot site in Dallas as well as the 12,000-square-foot space in Atlanta.

"We are pleased to welcome American Girl to Galleria Dallas, just in time for Galleria's 25th anniversary," notes Galleria Dallas general manager Peggy Weaver. "Galleria enjoys introducing its guests to shopping destinations that are unique to Texas and the Southwest, and now, the announcement of American Girl continues that tradition."

"Any shopping center would be fortunate to have American Girl in their retailer line-up," said Cris Burgum, general manager, at North Point Mall. "One of our main goals here is to provide a total experience. American Girl provides a one-of-a-kind shopping experience for mothers and daughters. We're confident shoppers in Northwest Georgia will flock to this store and create wonderful memories."

American Girl has been recognized as an industry leader in experiential retail since opening American Girl Place® Chicago in 1998. In November 2003, the company opened American Girl Place New York on Fifth Avenue, and American Girl Place Los Angeles opened at The Grove in April 2006. The phenomenally successful retail and entertainment sites have welcomed more than 15 million visitors to date.